Patrol Division

Our Mission

The Patrol Division exists to deter crime before it occurs through proactive enforcement, strategic patrol, and community engagement. Deputies are trained and expected to be skilled in all aspects of law enforcement, enabling them to address complex situations with confidence, professionalism, and sound judgment.

Key Responsibilities

Respond to requests and needs of the community with intention to create an excellent quality of life
Proactively patrol and investigate incidents to eradicate criminal conditions
Complete proper paperwork needed to move all documentation through the proper channels to navigate the justice system
Identify where specialized divisions are required to help cater to unique resources needed for specific incidents

DeSoto County Sheriff's Office deputies on patrol — Patrol deputies on active patrol across DeSoto County.

Day in the Life

Patrol deputies work 12-hour shifts (about 15 days a month) with full autonomy to proactively police as they see fit. Every local deputy has a take-home car and is able to use their discretion on what work they would like to accomplish when they are not answering active calls. Deputies are expected to help build our reputation for an unwavering commitment to enforcing the law while remaining respectful and professional.

DeSoto County deputy on a traffic stop — Routine work, performed professionally, every shift.

Training & Development

All deputies are TVI (Tactical Vehicle Intervention) certified to help safely end pursuits
Deputies can train in several different weapons systems including shotguns, rifles, less-lethal shotguns, and tasers
Defensive tactics, Jiu-Jitsu, and on-duty gym access are all available for those interested

DeSoto County Sheriff's Office patrol deputies during training — Patrol training is continuous—tactics, weapons systems, and defensive skills.

Why Patrol?

Patrol Division is the best place to hone your skills and become a better deputy because you are exposed to every facet of the job. You have the ability and freedom to create a work life that is beneficial to you and the career growth you are looking for.

Specialized Sub-Units

Patrol is home to several specialized units that focus on specific mission areas while supporting overall patrol operations. Each has a dedicated page below.

DUI Division — Whiskey Units

A proactive, full-time unit that specializes in the detection and apprehension of intoxicated drivers across DeSoto County.

DeSoto County Sheriff's Office Whiskey Unit DUI patrol vehicle — A Whiskey Unit DUI patrol vehicle.

Learn more about the Whiskey Unit →

K-9 Division

Handlers and their dogs support patrol, SWAT, and specialized units through narcotics detection, tracking, and apprehension work.

DeSoto County Sheriff's Office K-9 handler with a working dog — A K-9 handler with a working dog.

Learn more about K-9 →

Motors Division

Traffic enforcement, escort details, and a highly visible community-engagement presence on police motorcycles.

Learn more about Motors →

School Resource Officers

SROs provide a safe learning environment by building relationships with students through mentoring and education.

DeSoto County School Resource Officer on campus — SROs are a daily presence in DeSoto County schools.

Learn more about SROs →

Ready to Serve on Patrol?

The Patrol Division is the entry point to every specialty at the Sheriff's Office. Apply today to become a Deputy Sheriff and start your career where every day brings something new.

View Deputy Sheriff Careers